The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has strongly condemned the Edo State House of Assembly’s suspension of 18 local government chairmen, describing the action as a setback for democracy and an abuse of power.

In its emergency meeting on Wednesday afternoon, the National Executive Council (NEC) and the Board of Trustees (BOT) jointly condemned the decision which was made after Governor Monday Okpebholo accused the chairmen of disobeying his instructions by refusing to submit their financial records to the state government.

According to ALGON, the suspension is invalid as it contradicts the Supreme Court’s judgment granting local governments autonomy.

“The Association argues that the suspension is invalid, as it contradicts the Supreme Court’s judgment granting local governments autonomy,” said ALGON in a statement signed by its ALGON National Publicity Secretary, Hon Hamisu M. Anani.

However, ALGON views the suspension as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the principles of democracy.

The Edo State House of Assembly’s decision has also been widely criticized across the country, with many describing the action as unconstitutional, null, and void.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state had also condemned the suspension, stating that it is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the rule of law.

ALGON has urged the Governor and the State Assembly to reverse its decision and respect the rule of law to strengthen democratic governance.

The Association has also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and halt this abuse of power, emphasizing the need to respect the autonomy and independence of local governments as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The suspension of the 18 local government chairmen has sparked widespread outrage and calls for their reinstatement.

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